Top 10 Must-Watch American TV Shows

Silicon Valley is a hilarious and satirical series that captures the essence of the American startup culture in the tech world. It offers a brutally honest and entertaining look at the lives of IT professionals in Silicon Valley, where the startup movement is booming. As a show about technology and the future of innovation, it’s perfect for anyone interested in the world of startups and tech. Besides being a great source of entertainment, this show offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The series revolves around a small development team at a tech startup called Pied Piper, where they work to create their product, raise funds, and take on the giant tech corporation Hooli – a company resembling Google or Microsoft.

With its witty humor and sharp satire, Silicon Valley gives you a taste of the competitive and high-stakes tech world, making it not only enjoyable but also insightful. You’re sure to pick up some great lessons while having fun.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2014 - 2019

Genre: Comedy

Producers: John Altschuler, Mike Judge, Dave Krinsky

Stars: Thomas Middleditch, T.J. Miller, Josh Brener

IMDb Rating: 8.5

The X-Files is a classic sci-fi, detective, and crime series that has captured the hearts of TV fans worldwide, especially in Vietnam where it once aired on local television. One of the most iconic shows of the 1990s in America, it remains unforgettable for many fans, particularly those from the 80s and 90s generation in Vietnam.

The plot follows FBI agent Fox Mulder, who is on a quest to find his missing sister. His investigation leads him into the mysterious world of the "X-Files" as he believes that his sister was abducted by extraterrestrials. Mulder firmly believes in the existence of aliens, while his partner, Agent Dana Scully, is initially skeptical.

As the two work together on real-life cases, Scully slowly comes to accept the paranormal phenomena, especially when confronted with irrefutable evidence. If you're a fan of science fiction, The X-Files is the perfect show for you.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 1993 - 2018

Genre: Drama, Crime, Mystery

Producer: Chris Carter

Stars: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi

IMDb Rating: 8.6

Prison Break is a TV series that has gained widespread recognition, especially in Vietnam, where it was aired nationwide after being acquired by VTV. The show follows the thrilling journey of two brothers, Michael and Lincoln, as they plan and execute an elaborate escape from the most secure and brutal prison in America. The story begins when Lincoln is wrongfully convicted of the murder of the Vice President's brother and sentenced to death. Michael, Lincoln's brilliant brother (who helped design the Fox River prison), believes in his sibling's innocence and uses his genius to create an intricate escape plan.

Produced by FOX, Prison Break became a huge success, captivating audiences with its intense action and suspenseful moments. The series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, delivering both nail-biting tension and excitement. If you love gripping action and drama, Prison Break is a must-watch. It’s a favorite among American TV fans and likely to be on many people’s list of top series.

DETAILS:
Release Year: 2005 - 2017
Genre: Action, Drama, Crime
Producer: Paul Scheuring
Stars: Dominic Purcell, Wentworth Miller, Amaury Nolasco
IMDb Rating: 8.3

How I Met Your Mother is likely very familiar to Vietnamese viewers, as it’s a beloved comedy series that brings joy and artistic charm, offering entertaining moments and unforgettable experiences.

The show is narrated by Ted, who recounts his journey to his children in the year 2030, telling them how he met their mother. Spanning 9 seasons with approximately 22 episodes per season, the story follows Ted – a hopeless romantic, slightly awkward, and a bit clueless engineer – on his quest to find true love.

Throughout the series, you’ll dive into the lives of Ted and his friends – Robin, Marshall, Lily, and Barney – exploring everything from love and marriage to careers, friendships, and Barney’s numerous romantic escapades. Set in New York, the show reflects the aspirations of a group of young people navigating life in the city that never sleeps. Loved by many, How I Met Your Mother is also popular in Vietnam as a tool for improving English skills.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2010 - 2022

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Producers: Carter Bays, Craig Thomas

Stars: Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders

IMDb Rating: 8.3

Breaking Bad is a monumental TV series in the minds of US/UK series fans. The show tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Unable to afford the treatment, Walter decides to enter the criminal world with the help of his former student, Jesse Pinkman, to produce and sell methamphetamine in order to secure his family's future.

This crime-drama series, produced by AMC, caused a massive impact in the history of American television. The plot follows Walter White’s transformation from a struggling teacher to a ruthless criminal, as he teams up with Jesse to produce and sell crystal meth.

Though the pace of the show is slow, the intense moments of the story will leave you breathless. The exceptional direction and cinematography make each episode a masterpiece, blending art with suspense. Breaking Bad is a must-watch for any fan of gripping drama.

DETAILS:
Release Year: 2011 - 2019
Genre: Action, Drama, Adventure
Producer: Vince Gilligan
Stars: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
IMDb Rating: 9.5

Spartacus is an epic historical TV series that has captured the hearts of many fans of historical dramas. Inspired by the life of the real-life hero and slave gladiator, Spartacus, who led a major uprising against the Roman Republic’s slavery system in 73-71 BC, the show dives deep into the bloodied and brutal world of ancient Rome.

Set in a time of ancient Greek and Roman cultures, the series offers a captivating and artistic experience, filled with intrigue and fierce battles. While the series does include graphic violence and explicit scenes, it is widely praised for its compelling storyline, seamless integration of personal conflicts, and intense, dramatic moments that keep viewers on edge. Despite its over-the-top gore, the plot and characters provide a rich historical experience that is both thrilling and engaging.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2011 - 2019

Genre: Action, Biography, Adventure

Producer: Steven S. DeKnight

Stars: Andy Whitfield, Lucy Lawless, Manu Bennett

IMDb Rating: 8.5

The disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 has often been compared to the famous American TV series Lost. This show, widely popular in the US and beyond, was also broadcast in Vietnam after being acquired by VTV.

Lost tells the gripping story of the survivors of Oceanic Airlines Flight 815, which crashes on a mysterious island in the South Pacific. As they struggle to survive, they uncover strange occurrences and secrets about the island, as well as encounter a group of people known as 'The Others,' who have been on the island long before them. The show delves into the dark side of human nature, as each character faces their deepest fears, and as death looms, they are forced to confront their darkest impulses.

With its intense, suspenseful plot, Lost is a must-watch for anyone seeking a thrilling mystery filled with unexpected twists.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2004 - 2010

Genre: Drama, Adventure, Mystery

Producers: J.J. Abrams, Jeffrey Lieber, Damon Lindelof

Stars: Matthew Fox, Jorge Garcia, Josh Holloway

IMDb Rating: 8.5

The Walking Dead is a TV series that has captivated millions worldwide, setting a record for the highest viewership in the US. This post-apocalyptic zombie thriller follows Rick Grimes (played by Andrew Lincoln), who wakes up from a coma to find the world overrun by flesh-eating zombies. He embarks on a journey to reunite with his family, encountering other survivors along the way.

The Walking Dead has remained one of the most beloved TV shows, with millions of fans across the globe. The series depicts a world on the brink of collapse, as zombies rise to dominate. Led by former sheriff Rick Grimes, a group of survivors fights to stay alive in this dangerous new reality.

The show, a horror-packed post-apocalyptic drama, is one of the longest-running TV series in history. Spanning 12 years, The Walking Dead has gone through its ups and downs, and now, its final season, Season 11, is drawing to a close.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2010 - 2022

Genre: Action, Horror, Zombie

Producer: Frank Darabont

Stars: Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Melissa McBride

IMDb Rating: 9.2

American Horror Story is a TV series where each season presents a unique storyline, created by the renowned directors Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk.

As the name suggests, every season delivers a spine-chilling narrative, brought to life by Hollywood's top actors and directors. In addition to the inherent horror, each season provides valuable lessons and experiences for viewers. This series has become a must-watch in recent years.

Currently, American Horror Story has aired 10 seasons, and the latest season, themed NYC, explores the dark and bloody tales of infamous serial killers from the 1970s in New York City. Season 11, which premiered on October 19, 2022, consists of 8 episodes, each lasting between 40 and 90 minutes. Notably, the series will air two episodes per week until November 16, 2022. Viewer discretion is advised, as the show contains violent and sensitive content.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2011

Genre: Horror, Drama, Sci-Fi

Producers: Bradley Buecker, Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, ...

Stars: Lady Gaga, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters

IMDb Rating: 8.0

Game of Thrones is a fantasy series based on the acclaimed novel "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R. R. Martin. It’s a series beloved by millions, including world leaders like President Barack Obama, who has expressed his admiration for it.

The show is set in a medieval world where seven noble families battle each other through intrigue, treachery, and power struggles to claim control of the Iron Throne. House Stark, in particular, has won the hearts of many fans. This epic fantasy series, produced by HBO, boasts a massive budget and was helmed by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss.

While the series is known for its explicit scenes, graphic violence, and strong language, it remains irresistibly captivating, dominating the television scene with its strong storytelling, rich character arcs, and cinematic quality that rivals Hollywood blockbusters.

DETAILS:

Release Year: 2011 - 2019

Genre: Action, Drama, Adventure

Producers: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss

Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington

IMDb Rating: 9.2